Wednesday, 21 September 2016

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has directed passengers not to turn on or charge their Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices while aboard any plane.

The general manager, public relations of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Sam Adurogboye, has directed Nigerian passengers not to turn on or charge their Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices while aboard any airplane.

Adurogboye who gave the directive on behalf of the NCAA on Tuesday, said the action was necessary following recent incidents and concerns raised by manufacturers of the product, and warned passengers not to keep the phones in any checked-in baggage.“NCAA is appealing to the passengers’ responsibilities in relation to ensuring safety and security of air transportation.

“Importantly, all airlines are hereby advised to emphasise the prohibition of these devices on board during passenger briefings by the cabin crew.

“Similarly, all those responsible for searching or screening checked-in baggage are expected to intensify the procedures to identify possible checked-in Samsung Galaxy Note 7, ” a statement read.

According to TheCable News, NCAA reminded travellers that Samsung had recalled over 2.5 million Galaxy Note 7 devices due to several reported cases of overheating and outright explosion, adding that investigations traced these problems to charging, and the company was limiting battery charging on Galaxy Note 7 devices to prevent inferno.

“NCAA therefore calls on all passengers and airline operators to ensure total adherence to this directive as safety and security of air transportation is paramount to the authority.”

The nation’s regulatory body said it had also sent a letter with reference NCAA/DOT/ALL OPS/VOL.1/00716 to all airlines and all other stakeholders for strict compliance.